Topic: Parking Brake Nightmare
in Forum: C3 Engines, Driveline and Handling
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Trying to install new parking brake shoes and related S.S. hardware. How on earth does one get this stuff installed behind the hub without removing said hub. I'm starting to think that hub/axle shaft removal might be easier and quicker
I spent 4 hours last night and another 4 hours this morning and i'm still where I started. 
I thought I was being "slick" when I JB welded the little retainer cups to the retainer springs and it did help get them into place but that did not solve the problem of getting the main shoe springs installed behind the hub and still get the cable lever into place, I haven't even screwed with the lower spring and adjuster yet.
The catalogs say all this GM designed crap can be installed without removing the axle shaft/hub/whatever....
HELP ME,,,HELP ME,,,PLEASE !!!!!
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I hear ya brother' I replaced all of mine and it took forever to get those pins thru the retainer. I did buy the fancy screwdriver they sell and I think that helped a little but it still took hours. If I remember correctly I reached thru the retainer and grabbed the end of the pin with a pair of small needle nose. then compressed the spring and turned the retainer. IT SUCKS.
Good Luck
Lonnie
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Lifetime MemberIt's like a Chinese jigsaw puzzle. The right tools and patience, plus swearing works!
corvette440hp
I took a length of fine -strong thread - made a slip knot - lossooooed the pin - then threaded the line throught the retainer - then used needle nose pliers to compress the spring and turn the retainer- while keeping the thread tight - then cut off the thread
apasbigal 2008-04-23 16:04:55
works - but be patient
Big Al
Okay guys, I finally got that mess put together after a bbq sandwich and a couple of cold Coronas but.....I left the retainer hardware off.
I really think this parking brake application does not need those retainers. If this was a regular drum brake system there's no way I would leave them off.
Those shoes are in there pretty tight and if they rattle or whatever, then i]ll go back in and un-bubba the stuff.
Thanks for the advise, I will try the heavy thread technique if I have to.
in Forum: C3 Engines, Driveline and Handling
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